The Best RV Propane Detectors – Review and Buying Guide

Get stuck somewhere because you have way less propane in the tank than you thought (and that’s the best case scenario!)

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Have a leak that causes a fire

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Blow up the whole damn RV

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Die from carbon monoxide poisoning

So maybe there are a lot of very bad things that could happen if you are not using a propane detector for your RV. Angie’s List says that there are twice as many accidents like the ones described above caused by RV propane tanks than propane used in the house – like more than 30 deaths each month more!

Granted you can usually smell propane when it’s leaking but that’s not always the case. Especially when it is leaking outside, it becomes even more dangerous to detect since propane loses its odor when it mixes with air or water. You could be out camping and not smell a thing, all the while you’re RV propane tank is leaking dangerous, highly explosive propane and gas.

If you’re driving an old or used RV that’s been sitting idle for a while, using a propane tank that’s passed its expiration, or you are using propane without a propane detector, you’ve just increased the odds of something terrible happening tenfold.

With that in mind, if you own an RV that runs on propane, we don’t think it’s worth the risk to go with some cheapo knockoff propane detector. That’s why went on a search to find the best propane detector you can buy. Here are our top 10 choices:

The Best RV Propane Detectors

Before we reveal our top choice, let’s do a quick propane safety check. First, if your tank is more than 5 years old, it probably should be replaced. If you’ve had the same tank for 7 years or longer, you definitely should replace it. Check the date on the back.

Anxious to hit the road in your RV – pump those breaks – have you cleaned your propane tank? Wipe it down with a damp lint-free cloth or use a paper towel. Finally, if you’re going to be cooking near your RV propane tank, mind the fumes – including your butt cheese!

Yes, even the fumes coming out of your butt can set off your propane detector alarm…probably won’t cause an explosion, but just to be on the safe side – aim butt bombs away from the tank.

Topping our list at #1 is the Master 161 Splitter. We chose this as the best RV propane detector because of its versatility. You can choose from several different nozzle and splitter combinations including a 6-way splitter plus hose nozzle configuration!

It has a two-way nozzle built sturdier than ever. Lab tested and upgraded just last year, the Master 161 is cased in rubber so that it’s easy to shut on and shut off. The nozzles are bolted in so they will never disconnect.

Talk about convenience, the spigot can spin all the way around so it’s super easy to move the hoses in different directions. Worried about propane leaks? Not with this monster! Installing this splitter is as easy as hooking up a water hose and you are guaranteed a full refund if for any reason you don’t like the Master 161 Splitter.

Next we chose the SAIDE Propane Tank Detector Gauge. This gauge is a leak detector, level indicator, and gas pressure meter all in one. It is made to fit any RV camper and the safety valve can be attached to any Type 1 QCC cylinder propane tank.

Whether you are heating the inside of your RV or cooking on your detached gas grill, this gauge works with all propane fueled appliances. The SAIDE propane detector puts safety first. The gauge itself is color-coded so that you can easily read your gas levels. It also comes with an automatic shutoff valve.

If you need less propane to operate your RV indoor grill than to heat the camper, you can manage the flow of the fuel and adjust it with the emergency flow valve. Know when you are low on fuel or you’ve sprung a leak with our top safety pick for the best RV propane detector.

Propane leaks on an RV tank are especially dangerous because you use it outdoors. If it’s leaking outside, you won’t smell it. Next thing you know, you light your campfire and KABOOM! We chose the X Home Propane Adapter as part of our top 10 for its ability to alert you when your gas levels are low – a sure way to detect if you are losing fuel.

X Home puts safety first. You can rest assured that this adapter meets all regulations governing leaks, fuel flow, and gauge meters. If your RV grill isn’t working right or there is a problem with the gas hose, the adapter automatically cuts the flow of gas.

The gauge itself is made of solid brass and fits on all Type 1 RV tanks and appliances. You won’t need any special tools to install it. If for any reason you are unsatisfied with your X Home Propane Adapter, the manufacturer promises to go above and beyond to ensure your complete satisfaction.

Colibrox also offers a brass constructed propane tank adapter. The Colibrox Propane Tank Brass Adapter comes with a pressure meter gauge and leak detector. It is made to work with your RV’s 4 burner gas grill and BBQ. This is the perfect propane detector for replacing old tanks and gauges that have seen one too many camping trips.

One drawback is it won’t fit tanks over 40 pounds. Even still, it has long gauge handles so that you can easily see when your fuel level is low or needs to be recalibrated. The 100% brass adapter is lead-free and comes with a 100% money back guarantee.

If you are buying a new RV propane detector because your RV has been sitting for a long time, this is the one to choose. Make sure that you have your propane tank inspected too and replace it if necessary.

The GASPRO Propane Tank Gauge is made of 100% heavy duty solid brass and is a fuel level indicator and leak detector in one. It is compatible with all QCC1 propane tanks, ACME tanks, and tanks or appliances with a Type 1 connector. Like the Colibrox, it only works with tanks weighing 40 pounds or less.

One feature that makes this tank standout above the rest is the ability to check your fuel levels without needing to unhook the tank. It promises that all interior connectors are air tight to prevent leakage. The GASPRO Propane Tank Gauge can be used to control the fuel flow to all RV appliances and heaters.

To install, you’ll only need a hand tool for tightening the gauge to the tank. Beyond that, it is an easy, do-it-yourself install.

SHINESTAR makes a universal Propane Tank Gauge for RVs. This excellent propane detector gauges fuel levels, includes a gas pressure meter, and has a leak detector. Best thing about this gauge is that it can connect to a wide variety of appliances inside and outside of your RV including:

Firepit Tables

Standalone Grills

Camper Stoves

Heaters

Smokers

Turkey Fryers

BBQ Gas Grills

And More!

Of course you are limited by the size of the tank; fits 40 pound tanks max. But, it attaches to any Type 1 connector. A great thing about this RV propane detector is that its color-coded dial makes it very easy to see when your fuel levels are low. No need to detach the tank to check fuel levels and it’s quick and easy to install. Plus the brass construction prevents corrosion.

This Propane Tank Gauge by JUWO is also made of solid brass and comes with a gas pressure meter, gas level indicator, leak detector, and connector adapter. It fits any QCC1 propane tank and connects to any appliance with a Type 1 connector. It is ideal if you plan on hooking up many different appliances to your propane tank.

For the waste-conscious RV owners, the indicator on the JUWO Propane Tank Gauge lets you know exactly how much fuel is left in the cylinder down to the very last drop using pressure to determine just how much fuel is left in the tank. The anti-leak detector shuts off fuel flow whenever a malfunction is detected.

You can camp in the roughest terrain and not worry about damaging this gauge. Its high quality construction resists corrosion, inclement weather, and scratching. You can install the gauge yourself without the need for pipe threading or tape.

All propane tanks include gas – another highly flammable chemical. If the balance of propane and gas is off, that’s when explosions and fires occur. The Premium Gauge Master Propane Tank Gas Meter lets you know exactly how much propane is in the cylinder even in pitch blackness!

The level needle is glow-in-the-dark so that late at night when you’re out camping, you can still see where your levels are. This gauge fits all Type 1 connected appliances, is made for RVs, and includes a cap cover and leak detector.

Safety is king with the Premium Gauge Master Propane Tank Gas Meter. It is Department of Transportation approved and its anti-leak detector restricts the flow of fuel whenever a malfunction is detected. In addition to a 1 year warranty, Gauge Master offers 100% satisfaction guaranteed.

When you have a lot of appliances that run on propane, you want a universal tank gauge like the DozyAnt Propane Tank Gauge. As long as the appliance has a Type 1 connector, it will fit this handy propane level indicator and leak detector.

It comes with a gas pressure meter also so that you know precisely how much fuel is left in the tank. Its heavy duty brass construction is made to withstand the elements and you can check your fuel levels without detaching the tank. The DozyAnt Propane Tank Gauge fits tanks up to 40 pounds and has a color-coded dial for easy reading.

Easy DIY install only requires a hand tool for tightening the gauge to the cylinder. You can use this gauge with propane adapters, regulator hoses, and propane tank cylinders with no problem and it comes with a dust cover to keep your gauge clean.

Last but certainly not least, we wanted you to know about the GASSAF Propane Tank Gas Gauge and Leak Detector. This awesome piece of equipment is compatible with all QCC Type 1 connected appliances and cylinders, as most of the RV propane detectors on our list are.

This gauge also limits fuel flow in case of a malfunction. The settings on the dial are unique and indicate low gas, natural gas, and when to add more gas. It uses a gas pressure meter to measure exactly how much fuel is left in the tank.

The connectors are made of sturdy brass so that as long as the gauge is locked on, there will be no leaks. Whatever appliance you attach to this gauge, the connection is air tight. You will not need any special tools to hook it up either. You can do it yourself and rest assured that if there is anything wrong with your connections your gauge will detect it and alert you to it.